The Monterey AVA includes parts of the Carmel Valley and the Salinas Valley, and contains five smaller American Viticultural Areas. The northern portion is a cool growing region, but one with a very long growing season. Daytime temperatures rarely exceed 75 °F (24 °C) in most parts of the region, although the southern part of the Monterey AVA reaches 100 degrees at times.[4] The soil is sandy and most regions require extensive irrigation from the Salinas River.[3]

Over 50% of the grapes grown in the Monterey AVA are chardonnay. In the northern area, Riesling and Pinot noir are popular, while in the south, Bordeaux varietals are most often grown.[4]